Related links
MusiciansCharles FullbrookDan BatesDan JenkinsFiona BondsJane CarwardineMichael CollinsStephen LaytonSue DoreyJane Carwardine
Principal Second Violin
On CLS career to date
The world of music works in mysterious ways so I am not sure how I came to do my first date with CLS. I can remember that I was at the back of the second violins behind a pillar in a church in Finchley, recording a Jolivet flute concerto with Susan Milan and Richard Hickox conducting. I recognised the warmth of the orchestra very early on and felt it was somewhere I could be myself. After a few years I became a member of the first violin section and enjoyed the challenge but I now feel more at home leading the seconds, contributing more directly to the overall performance and sitting right at the heart of the Orchestra.
On most memorable concert
China was a real experience. It was amazing performing Beethoven to an audience that was hearing it for the very first time. There was a very memorable concert, the details of which should probably remain anonymous, but suffice it to say, certain members of the Orchestra suffered an acute attack of the giggles, including Richard Hickox, which was exacerbated by a cello string snapping and ending up around the player's ear!!
On a more serious note, one of the most moving performances and recordings for me was Benjamin Britten's Death in Venice with Philip Langridge in the main role. I was actually in tears after the performance at the Cheltenham Festival. This and their other collaborations are a fine testament to the musicianship of both Richard and Philip who are sadly no longer with us.
On relaxation
The most relaxing time for me in a day is taking the dog for a walk. I feel it keeps me in touch with the world as does reading The Week. As for hobbies, I occasionally do a bit of kayaking but don't have time for much else. I was thrown off my allotment due to a large crop of brambles!
My Desert Island Discs
I’d go for the tingle factor. A couple of pieces that get me every time I hear them is the opening of Bach's St John's Passion and the last few pages of Beethoven's Pastoral Symphony.
